Perez ruled out of British Grand Prix after testing positive for Covid-19

Sergio Perez will not be able to race in this weekend's British Grand Prix at Silverstone after he tested positive for Covid-19.

The Racing Point driver was absent from the circuit on Thursday after self-isolating following what his team called an "inconclusive" test.

But after being re-tested later in the day, it was confirmed he had registered positive for the virus.

"Perez has entered self-quarantine in accordance with the instructions of the relevant public health authorities, and will continue to follow the procedure mandated by those authorities," read a statement issued by Formula 1 and the FIA.

"With assistance of the local organiser of the British Grand Prix, local health authorities and the FIA COVID-19 delegate, a full track and trace initiative has been undertaken and all close contacts have been quarantined.

"The procedures set out by the FIA and Formula 1 have provided for swift containment of an incident that will have no wider impact on this weekend’s event."

READ MORE: Perez ’physically well’ despite testing positive for Covid-19, say Racing Point

Formula 1 is following a strict testing regime as part of the safety protocols put in place when racing resumed earlier this month, and this is the first time a driver has tested positive.

It's understood Racing Point - who confirmed the Mexican driver is "physically well and in good spirits" - intend to still run two car's in this weekend's race, with a revised driver line-up to be announced in due course.

A team spokesperson earlier confirmed a small group of team members that were in contact with Perez were self-isolating as a precaution and being re-tested, as is standard procedure.